Competition

Competitions will take place in venues carefully selected to provide the best possible conditions for athletes and spectators alike. Each site reflects the host country’s commitment to university sport, offering high-quality facilities in a setting designed for international events.

Competition format

Sprint	six (6) males and six (6) females
Sprint relay	two (2) teams of two (2) female runners (1&4 leg) and two (2) male runners (2&3 leg)
Middle distance	six (6) males and six (6) females
Relay	six (6) males and six (6) females

Venue

Serra do Alvão, located near Vila Real in northern Portugal, is a striking natural landscape known for its rugged mountains, deep valleys, and dramatic waterfalls.

The area is part of the Alvão Natural Park, a protected, offering breathtaking scenery and a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna.

The region’s diverse topography—ranging from open plateaus to dense forests and winding rivers—makes it an exceptional setting for outdoor sports, particularly orienteering.

Competitors at the World University Championship Orienteering 2026 will face both physical and navigational challenges amid landscapes shaped by centuries of natural and human influence.

The crisp mountain air, panoramic views, and authentic northern Portuguese atmosphere promise an unforgettable experience for athletes and visitors alike.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/WtV2d242Xgx4zhYg6

The center of Vila Real blends historic charm and vibrant local life, with cobbled streets, lively squares, and elegant architecture reflecting the heart of northern Portugal’s culture.

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YL8sEq7Gqa5AWcoL7

The competitions of this championship will take place in these two locations between July 28 and August 1.

Competition schedule

Trainings

To be defined